Red Bull Expresses Remorse Regarding Remarks Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its sincere regret for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including death threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli was said to have changed his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a response to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that several of these communications included threats against the youngster's life.
The controversy originated with radio communications during the closing stages of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.
This occurrence proved crucial for the championship battle, as the overtake earned him two additional points. This extended the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points ahead of the final race in Abu Dhabi.
In its official communication, Red Bull asserted: "Observations made implying that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has led to Kimi being subjected to such abuse."
The team's statement did not include a direct apology for the original claim. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later apologised to Toto Wolff after reviewing footage of the on-track moment.
"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are fighting for P2 in the constructors' championship... How brainless can you be to even suggest something like this?"
Wolff added that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the actual incident when he spoke over the radio. The team noted a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the racing incident as a error. He commented he was pushing hard to catch Carlos Sainz and had a "massive moment" that led him to run wide and surrender fourth place.
"It was really hard with the turbulence and the high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Key Points from the Situation
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the wake of those comments.
- The controversial remark centered on an on-track pass that impacted the title battle.
- Video replays confirm Antonelli made a mistake, contradicting the suggestion of deliberate action.
- The engineer involved has expressed regret to Mercedes management.
